October 17, 2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact:  Sandy Mitchell, Baker Technical Institute, sandy.mitchell@bakersd.org, 541-524-2651

Customized state-of-the-art operator training planned for Columbia Ridge Landfill employees to improve efficiency and enhance safety

BAKER CITY, OR – Baker Technical Institute (BTI) is pleased to announce that Waste Management has selected BTI to provide heavy equipment operator training at it’s Columbia Ridge Landfill site in Arlington, Oregon.

BTI will provide training to approximately 47 operators currently working at the Columbia Ridge site during the months of December and January.  BTI will utilize it’s mobile operator training platform that combines the latest technology of virtual reality through simulation, with time in the seat running equipment such as dozers, wheel loaders and excavators.

“Being able to train right at the customer's site is key. This allows us to focus on using technology to build the exact skills, right in their work environment, that will increase efficiency and build safety practices in the most efficient manner possible.” says lead instructor Dave Frazey. “We are working with their management team to build a customized learning plan for each operator in advance of the training.  This will ensure we are all in alignment providing each operator the opportunity to receive individual training based on their needs.”

The training is the result of a proactive approach of Columbia Ridge leadership to providing employees with advanced training allowing them to increase their operating efficiency, learn preventative maintenance strategies, and to develop enhanced safety awareness and skills.  A team from the site that included management and operators with varying years of experience toured the BTI headquarters and had an opportunity to experience how virtual reality and simulation can play such a key role in training today’s operator.

“We are excited to have BTI come to our facility and provide this training that is so customized to what we do.  By being able to customize the tasks for each person based upon what they need, it truly benefits each operator from the beginner to the veteran, “ says Paul Wilson, District Operations Manager.

About Columbia Ridge Landfill

Columbia Ridge Landfill provides safe and professional disposal services for communities, businesses and industries primarily from Oregon and Washington. Located in North Central Oregon, the site provides convenient truck access from Portland and rail access from Seattle. In addition, the sites dry climate and unique geology support superior environmental performance, while the rural locale allows for a 10,000-acre buffer managed for agriculture and wildlife. Columbia Ridge is also a platform for wind power and green technologies that use waste to generate renewable energy and clean fuels.